Issue No. 2: Cornerback Depth
On a positive note, veteran cornerback Richard Sherman has done an excellent job locking down one side of the field on defense. He has only allowed one completion on three targets over two weeks this season, pointing to him being the shutdown corner the 49ers envisioned him as after signing the 30-year-old veteran in free agency.
And zero concerns or questions about his 2017 Achilles injury either.
That said, depth questions behind Sherman have been problematic. Sherman’s presence meant opponents were going to target fellow cornerbacks Ahkello Witherspoon and K’Waun Williams a lot this season.
They have, and it hasn’t gone well. Especially not for Witherspoon, who gave up multiple receptions (including one for a touchdown) and could have easily allowed more in Week 2 versus Detroit had quarterback Matthew Stafford not overthrown multiple receiving targets.
The #Lions are going after Ahkello Witherspoon. He was called for holding and sent to the sideline, replaced by Jimmie Ward. Witherspoon came back in and was called for pass interference. Ward takes over.
— Matt Maiocco (@MaioccoNBCS) September 16, 2018
Witherspoon is going to be a key part of the 49ers’ plans this season, for better or for worse. And while we can expect young defensive backs to struggle early on, one has to hope for better performances in coming weeks.
Otherwise, Witherspoon could be destined for the same trajectory former Niners cornerback Rashard Robinson was after an impressive rookie 2016 campaign, followed by a forgettable 2017 effort.
Let’s hope that’s not the case, as there aren’t any ideal depth options behind the second-year pro.